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McKinley L, Acen IK, Alshannaq A, Christensen L, Dolan K, Kates A, Keating J, Musuuza J, Hollnagel F, Safdar N. Antiviral potential of spirulina in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus or Hepatis C virus infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2024; 63:440-446. [PMID: 39003731 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.06.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spirulina, a cyanobacterium or blue-green algae that contains phycocyanin, nutritional supplementation has been evaluated in patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) due to its antiviral properties. This supplementation may be beneficial in low resource settings when awaiting antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Spirulina supplement in antiviral-naïve HIV- and HCV-infected patients by assessing its immunological effect (Cluster of Differentiation 4 or CD-4 T-cell count) and disease progression (viral load). METHODS We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception through January 23, 2024. Two authors independently performed the study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. We pooled data by using a random-effects model and evaluated publication bias by a funnel plot. RESULTS We identified 5552 articles, 5509 excluded at the title and abstract stage with 44 studies making it to the full text review. Of these 6 studies met the eligibility for inclusion in the final analysis as follows: 4 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 2 non-RCTs. The pooled results of the Spirulina intervention found significant improvements in biomarkers of clinical outcomes, viral load (VL) and CD4 T-cell (CD4) counts, in participants of the treatment group compared to controls; the VL had an overall Cohen's d effect size decrease of -2.49 (-4.80, -0.18) and CD4 had an overall effect size increase of 4.09 (0.75, 7.43). [Cohen's d benchmark: 0.2 = small effect; 0.5 = medium effect; 0.8 = large effect]. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this systematic review showed a potential beneficial effect of Spirulina supplementation in HIV- and HCV-infected patients by increasing CD4 counts and decreasing viral load. However, further research in larger controlled clinical trials is needed to fully investigate the effect of this nutritional supplement on clinically relevant outcomes, opportunities for intervention, optimal dose, and cost-benefit of Spirulina supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda McKinley
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA.
| | | | - Ahmad Alshannaq
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Leslie Christensen
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Katherine Dolan
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Ashley Kates
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Julie Keating
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Fauzia Hollnagel
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Nasia Safdar
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
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Lizeth ANM, Vanessa BV, María Del Rocio TB, Margarita FC, Damián JM, Alfredo CO, Edgar CE, Placido RF. Hepatoprotective Effect Assessment of C-Phycocyanin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Rat Model by Using Photoacoustic Spectroscopy. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 78:296-309. [PMID: 38224996 DOI: 10.1177/00037028231222508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary neoplasia of the liver with elevated mortality. Experimental treatment with antioxidants has a beneficial effect on the experimental models of HCC. Arthrospira maxima (spirulina) and its phycocyanin have antitumoral action on different tumoral cells. However, it is unknown whether phycocyanin is the responsible molecule for the antitumoral effect on HCC. Photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) stands out among other spectroscopy techniques for its versatility of samples analyzed. This technique makes it possible to obtain the optical absorption spectrum of solid or liquid, dark or transparent samples. Previous studies report that assessing liver damage in rats produced by the modified resistant hepatocyte model (MRHM) is possible by analyzing their blood optical absorption spectrum. This study aimed to investigate, by PAS, the effect of phycocyanin obtained from spirulina on hepatic dysfunction. The optical absorption spectra analysis of the rat blood indicates the damage level induced by the MRHM group, being in concordance with the carried out biological conventional studies results, indicating an increase in the activity of hepatic enzymes, oxidative stress, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, cdk2, and AKT2 expression results, with a reduction in p53 expression. Also, PAS results suggest that phycocyanin decreases induced damage, due to the prevention of the Bax, AKT2, and p53 altered expression and the tumor progression in a HCC rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvarado-Noguez Margarita Lizeth
- Departamento de Física, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Blas-Valdivia Vanessa
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Thompson-Bonilla María Del Rocio
- Laboratorio de Medicina Genómica, Hospital Regional 1ro de Octubre, ISSSTE, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Franco-Colín Margarita
- Laboratorio de Metabolismo I. Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Colonia Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero., Ciudad de México, México
| | - Jacinto-Méndez Damián
- Departamento de Física, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Cruz-Orea Alfredo
- Departamento de Física, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Cano-Europa Edgar
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Rojas-Franco Placido
- Laboratorio de Metabolismo I. Departamento de Fisiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Colonia Unidad Profesional Adolfo López Mateos, Alcaldía Gustavo A. Madero., Ciudad de México, México
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Calderon Martinez E, Herrera D, Mogan S, Hameed Z, Jangda AA, Khan TJ, Mroke P, Sajid S, Shah YR, Baig I. Impact of Silymarin Supplements on Liver Enzyme Levels: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e47608. [PMID: 38021897 PMCID: PMC10667129 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Silymarin, extracted from milk thistle (Silybum marianum), is esteemed for its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic properties, notably within liver-related contexts. Nevertheless, a comprehensive grasp of its effects on liver enzymes remains elusive. This systematic review aims to scrutinize the influence of silymarin supplements on liver enzyme levels, elucidating its potential for hepatoprotection. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we systematically reviewed pertinent studies in PubMed/MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online). Our inclusion criteria comprised randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published between 1992 and 2023, accessible in English, with a primary focus on liver enzyme levels. Non-original research, ambiguously defined studies, and those lacking essential data were excluded. Of the 1,707 initially identified articles, 29 RCTs met the inclusion criteria, encompassing 3,846 participants with diverse underlying conditions. Silymarin dosages ranged from 140 mg to 420 mg, administered for various durations. Results revealed that 65.5% of the studies reported reduced liver enzyme levels, 20.7% exhibited no significant change, and 13.8% observed elevated liver enzymes. The systematic review implies a potential advantageous influence of silymarin on liver enzyme levels, indicating its hepatoprotective potential. Nevertheless, outcome disparities may stem from comorbidities, suboptimal doses, and underlying diseases. Notably, silymarin's impact on liver enzymes could be context-dependent, with varying responses among different conditions, with the decrease of liver enzyme levels in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Silymarin supplements exhibit potential for hepatoprotection by ameliorating liver enzyme levels across diverse conditions. Further research should ascertain optimal dosages and contexts, accounting for individual patient characteristics and underlying diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Domenica Herrera
- Internal Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, ECU
| | - Saruveish Mogan
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Kuching, MYS
| | - Zainab Hameed
- Internal Medicine, Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, PAK
| | | | - Tayyaba J Khan
- Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | - Palvi Mroke
- Internal Medicine, Caribbean Medical University School of Medicine, Willemstad, CUW
| | - Samar Sajid
- Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
| | - Yash R Shah
- Medicine, GMERS (Gujarat Medical Education and Research Society) Medical College and Civil Hospital, Sola, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Imran Baig
- Internal Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, USA
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Calella P, Di Dio M, Cerullo G, Di Onofrio V, Gallé F, Liguori G. Antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects of Spirulina in disease conditions: a systematic review. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2022; 73:1047-1056. [DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2022.2137785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Calella
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Naples, Italy
| | - Mirella Di Dio
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cerullo
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Di Onofrio
- Department of Sciences and Technologies, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Gallé
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Naples, Italy
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Musazadeh V, Karimi A, Bagheri N, Jafarzadeh J, Sanaei S, Vajdi M, Karimi M, Niazkar HR. The favorable impacts of silibinin polyphenols as adjunctive therapy in reducing the complications of COVID-19: A review of research evidence and underlying mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113593. [PMID: 36027611 PMCID: PMC9393179 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The proceeding pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 is the latest global challenge. Like most other infectious diseases, inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune system dysfunctions play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Furthermore, the quest of finding a potential pharmaceutical therapy for preventing and treating COVID-19 is still ongoing. Silymarin, a mixture of flavonolignans extracted from the milk thistle, has exhibited numerous therapeutic benefits. We reviewed the beneficial effects of silymarin on oxidative stress, inflammation, and the immune system, as primary factors involved in the pathogenesis of COVID-19. We searched PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct databases up to April 2022 using the relevant keywords. In summary, the current review indicates that silymarin might exert therapeutic effects against COVID-19 by improving the antioxidant system, attenuating inflammatory response and respiratory distress, and enhancing immune system function. Silymarin can also bind to target proteins of SARS-CoV-2, including main protease, spike glycoprotein, and RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase, leading to the inhibition of viral replication. Although multiple lines of evidence suggest the possible promising impacts of silymarin in COVID-19, further clinical trials are encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vali Musazadeh
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Arash Karimi
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Nasim Bagheri
- Department of microbiology Islamic Azad University of medical science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaber Jafarzadeh
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sarvin Sanaei
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Vajdi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mozhde Karimi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty ofMedical Sciences ,Tarbiat Modares University
| | - Hamid Reza Niazkar
- Breast Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Shiue SJ, Cheng CL, Shiue HS, Chen CN, Cheng SW, Wu LW, Jargalsaikhan G, Chan TS, Lin HY, Wu MS. Arthrospira Enhances Seroclearance in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B Receiving Nucleos(t)ide Analogue through Modulation of TNF-α/IFN-γ Profile. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14142790. [PMID: 35889747 PMCID: PMC9325115 DOI: 10.3390/nu14142790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) virus infection, causing immune dysfunction and chronic hepatitis, is one of the leading risk factors for hepatocellular cancer. We investigated how Arthrospira affected hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) reduction in CHB patients under continued nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA). Sixty CHB patients who had been receiving NA for at least one year with undetectable HBV DNA were randomized into three groups: control and oral Arthrospira at 3 or 6 g daily add-on therapy groups. Patients were followed up for 6 months. Oral Arthrospira-diet mice were established to investigate the possible immunological mechanism of Arthrospira against HBV. Within 6 months, mean quantitative HBsAg (qHBsAg) decreased in the oral Arthrospira add-on therapy group. Interestingly, interferon gamma (IFN-γ) increased but TNF-α, interleukin 6 (IL-6), hepatic fibrosis, and steatosis decreased in the add-on groups. In mice, Arthrospira enhanced both innate and adaptive immune system, especially natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, B cell activation, and the interleukin 2 (IL-2), IFN-γ immune response. Arthrospira may modulate IL-2- and TNF-α/IFN-γ-mediated B and T cell activation to reduce HBsAg. Also, Arthrospira has the potential to restore immune tolerance and enhance HBsAg seroclearance in CHB patients through promoting T, B, and NK cell activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Jie Shiue
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan; (S.-J.S.); (C.-L.C.); (H.-S.S.); (C.-N.C.); (S.-W.C.); (T.-S.C.)
- Integrative Therapy Center for Gastroenterologic Cancers, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Ling Cheng
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan; (S.-J.S.); (C.-L.C.); (H.-S.S.); (C.-N.C.); (S.-W.C.); (T.-S.C.)
| | - Han-Shiang Shiue
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan; (S.-J.S.); (C.-L.C.); (H.-S.S.); (C.-N.C.); (S.-W.C.); (T.-S.C.)
| | - Chun-Nan Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan; (S.-J.S.); (C.-L.C.); (H.-S.S.); (C.-N.C.); (S.-W.C.); (T.-S.C.)
| | - Sheng-Wei Cheng
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan; (S.-J.S.); (C.-L.C.); (H.-S.S.); (C.-N.C.); (S.-W.C.); (T.-S.C.)
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taiwan Adventist Hospital, Taipei 105, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wei Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, YunLin Branch, YunLin 640, Taiwan;
| | | | - Tze-Sian Chan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan; (S.-J.S.); (C.-L.C.); (H.-S.S.); (C.-N.C.); (S.-W.C.); (T.-S.C.)
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Lin
- Institute of Chemical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-Y.L.); (M.-S.W.); Tel.: +886-2-2930-7930 (ext. 7923) (M.-S.W.)
| | - Ming-Shun Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan; (S.-J.S.); (C.-L.C.); (H.-S.S.); (C.-N.C.); (S.-W.C.); (T.-S.C.)
- Integrative Therapy Center for Gastroenterologic Cancers, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- International Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (H.-Y.L.); (M.-S.W.); Tel.: +886-2-2930-7930 (ext. 7923) (M.-S.W.)
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Lee HA, Chang Y, Sung PS, Yoon EL, Lee HW, Yoo JJ, Lee YS, An J, Song DS, Cho YY, Kim SU, Kim YJ. Therapeutic mechanisms and beneficial effects of non-antidiabetic drugs in chronic liver diseases. Clin Mol Hepatol 2022; 28:425-472. [PMID: 35850495 PMCID: PMC9293616 DOI: 10.3350/cmh.2022.0186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The global burden of chronic liver disease (CLD) is substantial. Due to the limited indication of and accessibility to antiviral therapy in viral hepatitis and lack of effective pharmacological treatment in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, the beneficial effects of antidiabetics and non-antidiabetics in clinical practice have been continuously investigated in patients with CLD. In this narrative review, we focused on non-antidiabetic drugs, including ursodeoxycholic acid, silymarin, dimethyl4,4'-dimethoxy-5,6,5',6'-dimethylenedixoybiphenyl-2,2'-dicarboxylate, L-ornithine L-aspartate, branched chain amino acids, statin, probiotics, vitamin E, and aspirin, and summarized their beneficial effects in CLD. Based on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and regulatory functions in glucose or lipid metabolism, several non-antidiabetic drugs have shown beneficial effects in improving liver histology, aminotransferase level, and metabolic parameters and reducing risks of hepatocellular carcinoma and mortality, without significant safety concerns, in patients with CLD. Although the effect as the centerpiece management in patients with CLD is not robust, the use of these non-antidiabetic drugs might be potentially beneficial as an adjuvant or combined treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Ah Lee
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute for Digestive Research, Digestive Disease Center, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Pil Soo Sung
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,The Catholic University Liver Research Center, Department of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eileen L Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Won Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong-Ju Yoo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Young-Sun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jihyun An
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Guri, Korea
| | - Do Seon Song
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Youn Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Up Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Yonsei Liver Center, Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yoon Jun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Suraiya S, Ahmmed MK, Haq M. Immunity boosting roles of biofunctional compounds available in aquafoods: A review. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09547. [PMID: 35663745 PMCID: PMC9160354 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquafoods are diverse and rich in containing various health functional compounds which boost natural immunity. In this manuscript, the contents of biofunctional compounds such as vitamins, minerals, protein and amino acids, ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and pigments, etc. in various aquafoods like fishes, molluscs, crustaceans, seaweeds etc. are reported. The functional roles of those compounds are also depicted which enhance the immunecompetence and immunomodulation of the consumers. This paper provides an account of the recommended daily dietary intake level of those compounds for human. Those compounds available in aquafoods are recommended as they fight against various infectious diseases by enhancing immunity. Available reports on the bioactive compounds in aquafoods reveal the immunity boosting performances which may offer a new insight into controlling infectious diseases. Various bioactive compounds are available in diverse aquafoods. Aquafoods are rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, ω-3 PUFAs, and pigments. These compounds enhance immunecompetence and immunomodulation. Boosting immune system is an effective way to combat infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharmin Suraiya
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Mirja Kaizer Ahmmed
- Department of Fishing and Post-harvest Technology, Faculty of Fisheries, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi, Chittagong 4225, Bangladesh
| | - Monjurul Haq
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
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Carbone DA, Pellone P, Lubritto C, Ciniglia C. Evaluation of Microalgae Antiviral Activity and Their Bioactive Compounds. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:746. [PMID: 34202941 PMCID: PMC8234452 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last year, science has been focusing on the research of antivirally active compounds overall after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, which caused a great amount of deaths and the downfall of the economy in 2020. Photosynthetic organisms such as microalgae are known to be a reservoir of bioactive secondary metabolites; this feature, coupled with the possibility of achieving very high biomass levels without excessive energetic expenses, make microalgae worthy of attention in the search for new molecules with antiviral effects. In this work, the antiviral effects of microalgae against some common human or animal viruses were considered, focusing our attention on some possible effects against SARS-CoV-2. We summed up the data from the literature on microalgae antiviral compounds, from the most common ones, such as lectins, polysaccharides and photosynthetic pigments, to the less known ones, such as unidentified proteins. We have discussed the effects of a microalgae-based genetic engineering approach against some viral diseases. We have illustrated the potential antiviral benefits of a diet enriched in microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dora Allegra Carbone
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (C.L.); (C.C.)
| | - Paola Pellone
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Naples, Italy;
| | - Carmine Lubritto
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (C.L.); (C.C.)
- National Institute of Nuclear Physics, Complesso Universitario di Monte S, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Ciniglia
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (C.L.); (C.C.)
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Sangtani R, Ghosh A, Jha HC, Parmar HS, Bala K. Potential of algal metabolites for the development of broad-spectrum antiviral therapeutics: Possible implications in COVID-19 therapy. Phytother Res 2021; 35:2296-2316. [PMID: 33210447 PMCID: PMC7753317 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Covid-19 pandemic severely affected human health worldwide. Till October 19, 2020, total confirmed patients of COVID-19 are 39,944,882, whereas 1,111,998 people died across the globe. Till to date, we do not have any specific medicine and/or vaccine to treat COVID-19; however, research is still going on at war footing. So far vaccine development is concerned, here it is noteworthy that till now three major variants (named A, B, and C) of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus2 (SARS-CoV-2) have been recognized. Increased mutational rate and formation of new viral variants may increase the attrition rate of vaccines and/or candidate chemotherapies. Herbal remedies are chemical cocktails, thus open another avenue for effective antiviral therapeutics development. In fact, India is a large country, which is densely populated, but the overall severity of COVID-19 per million populations is lesser than any other country of the world. One of the major reasons for the aforesaid difference is the use of herbal remedies by the Government of India as a preventive measure for COVID-19. Therefore, the present review focuses on the epidemiology and molecular pathogenesis of COVID-19 and explores algal metabolites for their antiviral properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rimjhim Sangtani
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical EngineeringIndian Institute of TechnologyIndoreIndia
| | - Atreyee Ghosh
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical EngineeringIndian Institute of TechnologyIndoreIndia
| | - Hem C. Jha
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical EngineeringIndian Institute of TechnologyIndoreIndia
| | | | - Kiran Bala
- Discipline of Biosciences and Biomedical EngineeringIndian Institute of TechnologyIndoreIndia
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11
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Jafari Porzani S, Konur O, Nowruzi B. Cyanobacterial natural products as sources for antiviral drug discovery against COVID-19. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2021; 40:7629-7644. [PMID: 33749496 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.1899050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The recent Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), positive-sense RNA viruses, originated from Wuhan City in December 2019 and propagated widely globally. Hence, the disease caused by this virus has been declared as a global pandemic by the WHO. As of 18th February 2021, at least seven different vaccines across three platforms have been rolled out in countries and more than 200 additional vaccine candidates have been in development, of which more than 60 are at the stage of the clinical development. So far, Most of the approved vaccine manufacturers are Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Serum Institute of India, which have been finalized by WHO. Synthetic drug-associated complications have evoked scientific attention for natural product-based drugs. There has been a surge in the antiviral compounds from natural resources along with some therapies. Cyanobacteria are the fruitful reservoir of many metabolites like sulfated polysaccharides and lectins that possess strong antiviral activities and immunity boosting effects. However, the research in this field has been relatively under-developed. The current research highlights important features of cyanobacterial antiviral biomaterials, benefits and drawbacks of cyanobacterial drugs, challenges, future perspectives as well as overview of drugs against COVID-19. In addition, we have described mutated variants and transmission rate of coronaviruses. The current research suggests that cyanobacterial species and their extracts have promising applications as potentially antiviral drug biomaterials against COVID-19.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Jafari Porzani
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ozcan Konur
- Formerly, Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bahareh Nowruzi
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Petit L, Vernès L, Cadoret JP. Docking and in silico toxicity assessment of Arthrospira compounds as potential antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2. JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYCOLOGY 2021; 33:1579-1602. [PMID: 33776210 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-40890/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A race is currently being launched as a result of the international health situation. This race aims to find, by various means, weapons to counter the Covid-19 pandemic now widespread on all continents. The aquatic world and in particular that of photosynthetic organisms is regularly highlighted but paradoxically little exploited in view of the tremendous possibilities it offers. Computational tools allow not only to clear the existence and activity of many molecules but also to model their relationships with receptors identified in potential hosts. On a routine basis, our laboratory carries out a research activity on functionalities of molecules derived from algae using in silico tools. We have implemented our skills in algae biology and in modeling, as tests in order to identify molecules expressed by the genus Arthrospira showing an antiviral potential and more particularly anti-SARS-CoV-2. Using consensus docking and redocking with Autodock Vina and SwissDock, we were able to identify several promising molecules from Arthrospira: phycocyanobilin, phycoerythrobilin, phycourobilin, and folic acid. These four compounds showed reliable binding energies comprised between - 6.95 and - 7.45 kcal.mol-1 in Autodock Vina and between - 9.285 and - 10.35 kcal.mol-1 with SwissDock. Toxicity prediction as well as current regulations provided promising arguments for the inclusion of these compounds in further studies to assess their ability to compete with the SARS-CoV-2/ACE2 complex both in vitro and in vivo. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10811-021-02372-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léna Petit
- Algama, 81 rue Réaumur, 75002 Paris, France
| | - Léa Vernès
- Algama, 81 rue Réaumur, 75002 Paris, France
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13
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Petit L, Vernès L, Cadoret JP. Docking and in silico toxicity assessment of Arthrospira compounds as potential antiviral agents against SARS-CoV-2. JOURNAL OF APPLIED PHYCOLOGY 2021; 33:1579-1602. [PMID: 33776210 PMCID: PMC7979453 DOI: 10.1007/s10811-021-02372-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A race is currently being launched as a result of the international health situation. This race aims to find, by various means, weapons to counter the Covid-19 pandemic now widespread on all continents. The aquatic world and in particular that of photosynthetic organisms is regularly highlighted but paradoxically little exploited in view of the tremendous possibilities it offers. Computational tools allow not only to clear the existence and activity of many molecules but also to model their relationships with receptors identified in potential hosts. On a routine basis, our laboratory carries out a research activity on functionalities of molecules derived from algae using in silico tools. We have implemented our skills in algae biology and in modeling, as tests in order to identify molecules expressed by the genus Arthrospira showing an antiviral potential and more particularly anti-SARS-CoV-2. Using consensus docking and redocking with Autodock Vina and SwissDock, we were able to identify several promising molecules from Arthrospira: phycocyanobilin, phycoerythrobilin, phycourobilin, and folic acid. These four compounds showed reliable binding energies comprised between - 6.95 and - 7.45 kcal.mol-1 in Autodock Vina and between - 9.285 and - 10.35 kcal.mol-1 with SwissDock. Toxicity prediction as well as current regulations provided promising arguments for the inclusion of these compounds in further studies to assess their ability to compete with the SARS-CoV-2/ACE2 complex both in vitro and in vivo. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10811-021-02372-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léna Petit
- Algama, 81 rue Réaumur, 75002 Paris, France
| | - Léa Vernès
- Algama, 81 rue Réaumur, 75002 Paris, France
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Alam MA, Quamri MA, Ahmad Bhat MD, Aafreen S, Sofi G. Oxy+ (arthrospira) and its medicinal importance: an appraisal. Drug Metab Pers Ther 2020; 36:251-257. [PMID: 34821125 DOI: 10.1515/dmpt-2020-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Oxy+ is a natural source of arthrospira found in nature, used as a dietary supplement and manufactured in Aruba for lifefactors. Arthrospira contains good quality of proteins, sulfated polysaccharides, γ-linoleic acid, along with an array of carotene and phytopigments, vitamins, and minerals which are reported to be antioxidant, immunomodulator, antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antiviral, anticancerous, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, neuroprotective and renoprotective activities. Several studies have shown arthrospira, and active ingredients of it revealed various pharmacological activities. It can be used for the management of various ailments such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, hypertension, cancer, arthritis, osteoarthritis, autoimmune disorders, etc. This review attempts to explore the hidden benefits of Oxy+ (arthrospira).
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Anzar Alam
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Mohd Aleemuddin Quamri
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Muzafar Din Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Siddiqui Aafreen
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Ghulamuddin Sofi
- Department of Pharmacology (Ilmul Advia), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
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15
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Alam MA, Quamri MA, Ahmad Bhat MD, Aafreen S, Sofi G. Oxy+ (arthrospira) and its medicinal importance: an appraisal. Drug Metab Pers Ther 2020; 0:/j/dmdi.ahead-of-print/dmdi-2020-0152/dmdi-2020-0152.xml. [PMID: 33119541 DOI: 10.1515/dmdi-2020-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Oxy+ is a natural source of arthrospira found in nature, used as a dietary supplement and manufactured in Aruba for lifefactors. Arthrospira contains good quality of proteins, sulfated polysaccharides, γ-linoleic acid, along with an array of carotene and phytopigments, vitamins, and minerals which are reported to be antioxidant, immunomodulator, antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antiviral, anticancerous, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, neuroprotective and renoprotective activities. Several studies have shown arthrospira, and active ingredients of it revealed various pharmacological activities. It can be used for the management of various ailments such as diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, hypertension, cancer, arthritis, osteoarthritis, autoimmune disorders, etc. This review attempts to explore the hidden benefits of Oxy+ (arthrospira).
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Anzar Alam
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Mohd Aleemuddin Quamri
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Muzafar Din Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Siddiqui Aafreen
- Department of Medicine (Moalajat), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
| | - Ghulamuddin Sofi
- Department of Pharmacology (Ilmul Advia), National Institute of Unani Medicine, Bangalore, India
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Jayawardena R, Sooriyaarachchi P, Chourdakis M, Jeewandara C, Ranasinghe P. Enhancing immunity in viral infections, with special emphasis on COVID-19: A review. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2020; 14:367-382. [PMID: 32334392 PMCID: PMC7161532 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2020.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Balanced nutrition which can help in maintaining immunity is essential for prevention and management of viral infections. While data regarding nutrition in coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are not available, in this review, we aimed to evaluate evidence from previous clinical trials that studied nutrition-based interventions for viral diseases (with special emphasis on respiratory infections), and summarise our observations. METHODS A systematic search strategy was employed using keywords to search the literature in 3 key medical databases: PubMed®, Web of Science® and SciVerse Scopus®. Studies were considered eligible if they were controlled trials in humans, measuring immunological parameters, on viral and respiratory infections. Clinical trials on vitamins, minerals, nutraceuticals and probiotics were included. RESULTS A total of 640 records were identified initially and 22 studies were included from other sources. After excluding duplicates and articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 43 studies were obtained (vitamins: 13; minerals: 8; nutraceuticals: 18 and probiotics: 4). Among vitamins, A and D showed a potential benefit, especially in deficient populations. Among trace elements, selenium and zinc have also shown favourable immune-modulatory effects in viral respiratory infections. Several nutraceuticals and probiotics may also have some role in enhancing immune functions. Micronutrients may be beneficial in nutritionally depleted elderly population. CONCLUSIONS We summaries possible benefits of some vitamins, trace elements, nutraceuticals and probiotics in viral infections. Nutrition principles based on these data could be useful in possible prevention and management of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranil Jayawardena
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka; School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Piumika Sooriyaarachchi
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; Health and Wellness Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Michail Chourdakis
- Laboratory of Hygiene, Social & Preventive Medicine and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, 4, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Chandima Jeewandara
- National Center for Primary Care and Allergy Research, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
| | - Priyanga Ranasinghe
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
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Elnazer HY, Baldwin DS. Structured review of the use of the Arizona sexual experiences scale in clinical settings. Hum Psychopharmacol 2020; 35:e2730. [PMID: 32236977 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 40% of women and 30% of men describe sexual dysfunction, although recognition in medical settings is suboptimal, due to problems in reporting and eliciting concerns relating to sexual function and satisfaction. Screening questionnaires may help to support this aspect of clinical practice. The Arizona sexual experiences scale (ASEX) includes items that quantify sex drive, arousal, vaginal lubrication or penile erection, ability to reach orgasm, and satisfaction from orgasm. METHOD We investigated the validity and other psychometric properties of the ASEX, and the findings from the populations in which it has been employed, by searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar using the terms, Arizona sexual experiences scale, Arizona Sexual Experience Questionnaire, and ASEX. We eliminated duplications, letters, and papers not available in English, and grouped the remaining papers into the categories of psychometric, epidemiological, and outcome-based studies. RESULTS After elimination of letters and duplicates, papers not in English, and preclinical and irrelevant studies, 104 papers were analyzed. The ASEX has excellent internal consistency, scale reliability and strong test-retest reliability. Analyses of variance reveal significant differences in total ASEX scores between patients and controls and between females and males. ASEX appears to be useful in a range of clinical situations including patients with primary sexual dysfunction, specific psychiatric disorders, specific physical illnesses, and treatment emergent sexual dysfunction. DISCUSSION The ASEX appears to be a reliable instrument for identifying and quantifying sexual dysfunction across a range of populations in various clinical settings. Little is known about its utility in patients with anxiety disorders or relationships between ASEX scores and biological parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesham Y Elnazer
- Faculty of Medicine, Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry). Academic Department, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - David S Baldwin
- Faculty of Medicine, Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry). Academic Department, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cardiac failure in children with Thalassemia major (TM) is the major cause of death due to iron overload. Spirulina is a micro alga with proven anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and may have a cardioprotective effect. AIM OF THE WORK The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible beneficial effect of spirulina supplement in TM children. SUBJECT AND METHODS It is an interventional study carried out in 60 children with TM and 30 healthy children matched for age and sex as control. Both groups received spirulina supplement at a dose of 250 mg/kg/d for 3 months. 2D Echo, Tissue Doppler, and speckle tracking imaging (STI) were done for all the studied cohort before and after the 3-month duration of spirulina supplement. RESULTS There was significant improvement in hemoglobin level at the end of 3-month period (8.27±1.3 vs. 9.023±1.7; P <0.033) with decrease the frequency of blood transfusion in TM patients (66.6% vs. 40% required transfusion at interval less than 2 wk). Left ventricle global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) significantly improved after 3-month period (-21.7±4.64 vs. -24.67±4.478; P <0.002). CONCLUSIONS Spirulina supplement has possible beneficial effect in minimizing the frequency of blood transfusion as well as cardioprotective effect against cardiac damage in TM patients.
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Martínez-Sámano J, Torres-Montes de Oca A, Luqueño-Bocardo OI, Torres-Durán PV, Juárez-Oropeza MA. Spirulina maxima Decreases Endothelial Damage and Oxidative Stress Indicators in Patients with Systemic Arterial Hypertension: Results from Exploratory Controlled Clinical Trial. Mar Drugs 2018; 16:md16120496. [PMID: 30544795 PMCID: PMC6315658 DOI: 10.3390/md16120496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Spirulina (Arthrospira) maxima has shown beneficial effects such as being anti-dyslipidemic, antiviral, antioxidant and antihypertensive. However, there are few and limited clinical studies. (2) Methods: a prospective, randomized, parallel pilot study of 4.5 g administration of Spirulinamaxima or placebo for 12 weeks in 16 patients with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) undergoing treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors was performed to assess the effects on endothelial damage and oxidative stress indicators. The blood levels of sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, endothelin-1, and sE-selectin were quantified; the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and concentrations of reduced glutathione, oxidized glutathione, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, were also quantified before and after the treatment period. (3) Results: There were statistically significant (p < 0.05) decreases in systolic blood pressure, sVCAM-1, sE-selectin and endothelin-1 levels, and increases in glutathione peroxidase activity and oxidized glutathione levels. (4) Conclusion: The effects found in the present study agree with antihypertensive and antioxidant effects previously reported for Spirulina maxima. However, this is the first report about the effects on indicators of endothelial damage. More research in this field is necessary to gain an insight into the effects of Spirulina on these indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Martínez-Sámano
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | - Adriana Torres-Montes de Oca
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | - Oscar Ivan Luqueño-Bocardo
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | - Patricia V Torres-Durán
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | - Marco A Juárez-Oropeza
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
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Furmaniak MA, Misztak AE, Franczuk MD, Wilmotte A, Waleron M, Waleron KF. Edible Cyanobacterial Genus Arthrospira: Actual State of the Art in Cultivation Methods, Genetics, and Application in Medicine. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2541. [PMID: 29326676 PMCID: PMC5741684 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cyanobacterial genus Arthrospira appears very conserved and has been divided into five main genetic clusters on the basis of molecular taxonomy markers. Genetic studies of seven Arthrospira strains, including genome sequencing, have enabled a better understanding of those photosynthetic prokaryotes. Even though genetic manipulations have not yet been performed with success, many genomic and proteomic features such as stress adaptation, nitrogen fixation, or biofuel production have been characterized. Many of above-mentioned studies aimed to optimize the cultivation conditions. Factors like the light intensity and quality, the nitrogen source, or different modes of growth (auto-, hetero-, or mixotrophic) have been studied in detail. The scaling-up of the biomass production using photobioreactors, either closed or open, was also investigated to increase the production of useful compounds. The richness of nutrients contained in the genus Arthrospira can be used for promising applications in the biomedical domain. Ingredients such as the calcium spirulan, immulina, C-phycocyanin, and γ-linolenic acid (GLA) show a strong biological activity. Recently, its use in the fight against cancer cells was documented in many publications. The health-promoting action of "Spirulina" has been demonstrated in the case of cardiovascular diseases and age-related conditions. Some compounds also have potent immunomodulatory properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut microflora, acting as antimicrobial and antiviral. Products derived from Arthrospira were shown to successfully replace biomaterial scaffolds in regenerative medicine. Supplementation with the cyanobacterium also improves the health of livestock and quality of the products of animal origin. They were also used in cosmetic preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magda A Furmaniak
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Agnieszka E Misztak
- Department of Biotechnology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Martyna D Franczuk
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Annick Wilmotte
- InBios-Centre for Protein Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Małgorzata Waleron
- Department of Biotechnology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of University of Gdańsk and Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Krzysztof F Waleron
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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de Avelar CR, Pereira EM, de Farias Costa PR, de Jesus RP, de Oliveira LPM. Effect of silymarin on biochemical indicators in patients with liver disease: Systematic review with meta-analysis. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:5004-5017. [PMID: 28785154 PMCID: PMC5526770 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i27.5004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effect of silymarin on the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (γGT) in patients with liver diseases. METHODS A systematic review with meta-analysis of ramdomized and controlled clinical trials was performed, evaluating the effects of sylimarin in patients with hepatic diseases, published by January 31, 2016. Clinical trials were sought on the basis of The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane Library, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Lilacs and Clinical Trials. The trials with adult and elderly patients of both sexes, with Liver Diseases who took oral silymarin supplementation, as extract or isolated, as well as Silymarin combined with other nutrients, were included. The trials should provide information about the intervention, such as dosages and detailing of the product used, besides the mean and standard deviation of serum levels of ALT, AST and γGT of the baseline and at the end of the intervention. RESULTS An amount of 10904 publications were identified. From those, only 17 were included in the systematic review and 6 in the meta-analysis, according to the used selection criteria. In this meta-analysis, the results indicated a reduction of 0.26 IU/mL (95%CI: -0.46-0.07, P = 0.007) at the level of ALT and 0.53 IU/mL (95%CI: -0.74-0.32, P = 0.000) at the serum levels of AST after using the silymarin, both, statistically significant, but with no clinical relevance. There was no significant change in the γGT levels. Subgroup analyzes were also performed for the biochemical markers in relation to the type of intervention, whether silymarin isolated or associated with other nutrients and the time of intervention (whether ≥ 6 mo or < 6 mo). Significant differences were not found. The evaluated studies presented a high degree of heterogeneity and low methodological quality in the carried out analysis. CONCLUSION Silymarin minimally reduced, but without clinical relevance, the serum levels of ALT and AST. It is necessary to carry out studies with more appropriate methodological designs.
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Ahmed SMU, Luo L, Namani A, Wang XJ, Tang X. Nrf2 signaling pathway: Pivotal roles in inflammation. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2016; 1863:585-597. [PMID: 27825853 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1124] [Impact Index Per Article: 140.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation is the most common feature of many chronic diseases and complications, while playing critical roles in carcinogenesis. Several studies have demonstrated that Nrf2 contributes to the anti-inflammatory process by orchestrating the recruitment of inflammatory cells and regulating gene expression through the antioxidant response element (ARE). The Keap1 (Kelch-like ECH-associated protein)/Nrf2 (NF-E2 p45-related factor 2)/ARE signaling pathway mainly regulates anti-inflammatory gene expression and inhibits the progression of inflammation. Therefore, the identification of new Nrf2-dependent anti-inflammatory phytochemicals has become a key point in drug discovery. In this review, we discuss the members of the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE signal pathway and its downstream genes, the effects of this pathway on animal models of inflammatory diseases, and crosstalk with the NF-κB pathway. In addition we also discuss about the regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome by Nrf2. Besides this, we summarize the current scenario of the development of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals and others that mediate the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Minhaj Uddin Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Lin Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China; School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, PR China
| | - Akhileshwar Namani
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Xiu Jun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China
| | - Xiuwen Tang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, PR China.
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Daoud HM, Soliman EM. Evaluation of Spirulina platensis extract as natural antivirus against foot and mouth disease virus strains (A, O, SAT2). Vet World 2015; 8:1260-5. [PMID: 27047027 PMCID: PMC4774665 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2015.1260-1265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 09/05/2015] [Accepted: 09/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: This work was aimed to document the antiviral activates of Spirulina platensis extract against foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) different types to evaluate its replication in Baby Hamster Kidney (BHK) cell culture and in baby mice. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxicity assay studied for S. platensis extract on BHK cells to determine the non-toxic dose. The non-toxic dose of Spirulina extract was mixed with each type of FMDV (A, O, SAT2). Then 10-fold dilutions from each mixture were done. FMDV titer for each type of treated FMDV was calculated to evaluate the antiviral activity of the Spirulina extract against FMDV. Furthermore, old baby Swiss mice were inoculated with 0.1 ml intraperitonially from the mixture of FMDV different types and different concentration of Spirulina extracts. After 48 h post inoculation, all the baby mice examined to evaluate the antiviral action of Spirulina extract. Results: The result showed that the non-toxic doses of S. platensis (50 ug/ml) revealed 35.7%, 28.5%, and 31% reductions in FMDV titers Type O, A, and SAT2 on BHK cells, respectively. The same non-toxic dose gave 50% of the inhibitory concentration in baby mice without cytotoxic effect. Conclusion: This study confirmed the biological activity of the ethanol extract of S. platensis against FMDV Types O, A, and SAT2. From the results, S. platensis could be useful as antiviral lead to limitation of infection among animals during outbreaks but further studies need to evaluate the S. platensis on experimental or natural infected farm animals to establish the effective dose side affected period of treatment of S. platensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hind M Daoud
- Department of Foot and Mouth, Veterinary Serum and Vaccine Research Institute, Abbassia, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman M Soliman
- Central Laboratory for Evaluation of Veterinary Biologics, Abbassia, Cairo, Egypt
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24
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Mastron JK, Siveen KS, Sethi G, Bishayee A. Silymarin and hepatocellular carcinoma: a systematic, comprehensive, and critical review. Anticancer Drugs 2015; 26:475-86. [PMID: 25603021 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The blessed milk thistle (Silybum marianum L.), a flowering plant native to Mediterranean Europe, has been consumed and extensively used as a cure for various chronic liver ailments over several centuries. Milk thistle extract, known as silymarin, is a complex mixture of seven major flavonolignans and one flavonoid. The phytoconstituents of silymarin owe their therapeutic and hepatoprotective effects to their strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Primary liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), occurs in a milieu of oxidative stress and inflammation. The etiology of HCC includes chronic infection with hepatitis B and C viruses, cirrhosis, and exposure to dietary and environmental hepatocarcinogens. Current therapeutic options for HCC, including surgical resection and liver transplantation, have limited benefits and are essentially ineffective. Chemoprevention, using phytochemicals with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, represents a fascinating strategy, which has been a subject of intense investigation in the recent years. In this review, we explore the potential role of silymarin as a chemopreventive and therapeutic agent for HCC. The review systematically evaluates the preclinical in-vitro and in-vivo studies investigating the effects of silymarin and its constituents on HCC. The biochemical mechanisms involved in the anti-liver-cancer effects of silymarin have been presented. The current status of clinical studies evaluating the potential of role of silymarin in liver cancer, especially that caused by hepatitis C virus, has also been examined. Potential challenges and future directions of research involved in the 'bench-to-bedside' transition of silymarin phytoconstituents for the chemoprevention and treatment of HCC have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanetta K Mastron
- aAmerican University of Health Sciences, Signal Hill bDepartment of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, California, USA cDepartment of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore dInterim Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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25
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Shawkat H, Yakoot M, Shawkat T, Helmy S. Efficacy and safety of a herbal mixture (Viron® tablets) in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection: a prospective, randomized, open-label, proof-of-concept study. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2015; 9:799-804. [PMID: 25709404 PMCID: PMC4334351 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s77168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Background Development of an optimal interferon-free regimen for chronic hepatitis C virus infection is believed to require the combination of different drug classes to provide good antiviral efficacy, clinical and quality of life benefits, as well as a high barrier to resistance. Viron® is a new herbal drug in film-coated tablet form, and is based on a mixture of herbs with known hepatoprotective and antiviral properties. We conducted this study to explore the safety and the potential clinical and quality of life benefits of this product in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection. Methods Eighty-two consecutive patients presenting to our outpatient clinics as already-known or newly-diagnosed cases of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, were entered into the study and randomized to three groups to receive escalating doses of Viron for 6 months. Virological, clinical, and enzyme responses, as well as quality of life index scores for chronic liver disease were compared between the groups. Results Of the 20 patients treated with the highest dose of Viron (three tablets twice daily), two (10%) had a complete virological response at the end of treatment (ETR) and two (10%) had a partial ETR, defined as a decrease in viral load of at least 2-log10 at the end of 6 months of treatment, whereas patients treated with the medium dose (two tablets twice daily) and the lowest dose (one tablet twice daily) showed a significantly lower ETR (P=0.043). Alanine aminotransferase levels and scores on the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire improved to a significantly greater extent in the highest dose group (P=0.007 and P=0.021, respectively). No serious adverse effects attributable to the herbal formulation were reported in any of the groups, apart from mild transient nausea, bloating, giddiness, and headache in two patients in the group receiving two tablets twice daily and in three patients in the group receiving three tablets twice daily. Conclusion We conclude that this herbal formulation is potentially safe and may offer some added clinical and quality of life benefits when used in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Larger studies could be warranted to evaluate the effects of using this formulation as an add-on therapy to an all-oral combination of a directly acting antiviral drug protocol in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tarek Shawkat
- KEMET Clinic, Cairo, Egypt ; Internal Medicine Department, Cape Canaveral Hospital, Cocoa Beach, FL, USA
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26
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Yang Z, Zhuang L, Lu Y, Xu Q, Chen X. Effects and tolerance of silymarin (milk thistle) in chronic hepatitis C virus infection patients: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:941085. [PMID: 25247194 PMCID: PMC4163440 DOI: 10.1155/2014/941085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of silymarin on chronic hepatitis C virus- (HCV-) infected patients. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of silymarin in chronic HCV-infected patients up to April 1, 2014 were systematically identified in PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. RESULTS A total of 222 and 167 patients in five RCTs were randomly treated with silymarin (or intravenous silibinin) and placebo, respectively. Serum HCV RNA relatively decreased in patients treated with silymarin compared with those administered with placebo, but no significance was found (P = 0.09). Meta-analysis of patients orally treated with silymarin indicated that the changes of HCV RNA are similar in the two groups (P = 0.19). The effect on alanine aminotransferase (ALT) of oral silymarin is not different from that of placebo (P = 0.45). Improvements in quality-of-life (Short Form-36) in both silymarin and placebo recipients were impressive but relatively identical (P = 0.09). CONCLUSION Silymarin is well tolerated in chronic HCV-infected patients. However, no evidence of salutary effects of oral silymarin has yet been reported based on intermediate endpoints (ALT and HCV RNA) in this population. Moreover, intravenous administration of silymarin should be further studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongguo Yang
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center Affiliated to Fudan University, No. 2901, Caolang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai 201508, China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Clinical Base), Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Liping Zhuang
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yunfei Lu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center Affiliated to Fudan University, No. 2901, Caolang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai 201508, China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Clinical Base), Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Qingnian Xu
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center Affiliated to Fudan University, No. 2901, Caolang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai 201508, China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Clinical Base), Shanghai 201508, China
| | - Xiaorong Chen
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center Affiliated to Fudan University, No. 2901, Caolang Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai 201508, China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Clinical Base), Shanghai 201508, China
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Mohamed AH, Osman GY, Salem TA, Elmalawany AM. The hepatoprotective activity of blue green algae in Schistosoma mansoni infected mice. Exp Parasitol 2014; 145:7-13. [PMID: 25016189 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2014.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Revised: 06/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of a natural product, blue green algae (BGA) (100 mg/kg BW), alone or combined with praziquantel PZQ (250 mg/kg BW) on granulomatous inflammation, liver histopathology, some biochemical and immunological parameters in mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Results showed that the diameter and number of egg granuloma were significantly reduced after treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with BGA, PZQ and their combination. The histopathological alterations observed in the liver of S. mansoni-infected mice were remarkably inhibited after BGA treatments. BGA decreased the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as well as the level of total protein (TP) while the level of albumin was increased. Treatment of infected mice with BGA, PZQ as well as their combination led to significant elevation in the activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) as compared with control group. Combination of BGA and PZQ resulted in significant reduction in the level of intercellular adhesion molecules-1 (ICAM-1), vascular adhesion molecules-1 (VCAM-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) when compared to those of the S. mansoni-infected group. Overall, BGA significantly inhibited the liver damage accompanied with schistosomiasis, exhibited a potent antioxidant and immunoprotective activities. This study suggests that BGA can be considered as promising for development a complementary and/or alternative medicine against schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azza H Mohamed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Menufiya University, Egypt
| | - Gamalat Y Osman
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Menufiya University, Egypt
| | - Tarek A Salem
- Molecular Biology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Institute, Sadat City University, Egypt
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Mazokopakis EE, Papadomanolaki MG, Fousteris AA, Kotsiris DA, Lampadakis IM, Ganotakis ES. The hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects of Spirulina ( Arthrospira platensis) supplementation in a Cretan population with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a prospective pilot study. Ann Gastroenterol 2014; 27:387-394. [PMID: 25331487 PMCID: PMC4188938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A pilot study was conducted to determine the effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) on Cretan patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Spirulina is a filamentous cyanobacterium taken as a dietary supplement. METHODS Fifteen adult Cretan outpatients (13 men), median age 48 (range: 29-62) years, with NAFLD were orally supplemented with 6 g of Spirulina (Greek production) per day for six months. Anthropometric characteristics (height, weight, waist circumference), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, complete blood count, biochemical assessments, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index, health-related quality of life and abdominal sonographic findings were recorded and measured, before and after Spirulina supplementation. RESULTS At the end of the 6-month intervention period, the mean levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, total cholesterol, and the ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significantly decreased: 38.5%, 37.5%, 26.7%, 24.8%, 9.6%, 9.1%, and 13.5% respectively, whereas the mean levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and hemoglobin were significantly increased: 4.2% and 4.1% respectively. Spirulina supplementation resulted also in a significant reduction in weight and HOMA-IR index (8.1% and 19.6% respectively) and a significant improvement in health-related quality of life scale. No changes in sonographic findings were observed. CONCLUSION Spirulina supplementation at a high dosage of 6 g daily in NAFLD patients has strong and multiple beneficial metabolic effects and improves their health-related quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias E. Mazokopakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Hospital of Crete, Chania (Elias E. Mazokopakis, Dimitrios A. Kotsiris, Ioannis M. Lampadakis), Crete, Greece
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion (Elias E. Mazokopakis, Emmanuel S. Ganotakis), Crete, Greece
| | - Maria G. Papadomanolaki
- Department of Sciences, Technical University of Crete, Chania (Maria G. Papadomanolaki), Crete, Greece
| | - Andreas A. Fousteris
- Department of Radiology, Naval Hospital of Crete, Chania (Andreas A. Fousteris), Crete, Greece
| | - Dimitrios A. Kotsiris
- Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Hospital of Crete, Chania (Elias E. Mazokopakis, Dimitrios A. Kotsiris, Ioannis M. Lampadakis), Crete, Greece
| | - Ioannis M. Lampadakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Hospital of Crete, Chania (Elias E. Mazokopakis, Dimitrios A. Kotsiris, Ioannis M. Lampadakis), Crete, Greece
| | - Emmanuel S. Ganotakis
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Heraklion (Elias E. Mazokopakis, Emmanuel S. Ganotakis), Crete, Greece
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Carreño V. Review article: management of chronic hepatitis C in patients with contraindications to anti-viral therapy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 39:148-62. [PMID: 24279580 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are patients with chronic hepatitis C who are not eligible for the current interferon-based therapies or refuse to be treated due to secondary effects. AIM To provide information on alternative treatments for the management of these patients. METHODS A PubMed search was performed to identify relevant literature. Search terms included hepatitis C virus, anti-inflammatory treatment, antioxidant, natural products and alternative treatment, alone or in combination. Additional publications were identified using the references cited by primary and review articles. RESULTS Several approaches, such as iron depletion (phlebotomy), treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid or glycyrrhizin, have anti-inflammatory and/or anti-fibrotic effects. Life interventions like weight loss, exercise and coffee consumption are associated with a biochemical improvement. Other alternatives (ribavirin monotherapy, amantadine, silibinin, vitamin supplementation, etc.) do not have any beneficial effect or need to be tested in larger clinical studies. CONCLUSION There are therapeutic strategies and lifestyle interventions that can be used to improve liver damage in patients with chronic hepatitis C who cannot receive or refuse interferon-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Carreño
- Fundación Estudio Hepatitis Virales, Madrid, Spain
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Dixit RB, Suseela MR. Cyanobacteria: potential candidates for drug discovery. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek 2013; 103:947-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s10482-013-9898-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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